The tech landscape is evolving, and women, particularly from Gen Z, are prominently stepping into the crypto sphere. As blockchain technologies advance, a new generation of women is ushering in a break from the traditionally male-dominated environment, steering towards fresh innovations and redefined leadership models. However, significant challenges remain that need addressing for women to make a substantial impact in the crypto field.
During the Blockchain Baddies event at Token2049 in Dubai, women globally shared their paths into Web3, emphasizing the importance of simplifying technical concepts and developing a safer environment for learning. Caroline York, marketing director at Serotonin, pointed out the need for clear information: “To attract more women, we’ve got to make the information much more digestible.”
Some Of The Women Who Are Already Shaping Crypto
Several influential women have recently established their presence in the crypto and Web3 ecosystem: Cathie Wood, founder of ARK Invest, is a well-known advocate for Bitcoin and decentralized finance, championing broader adoption through bold investment strategies.
Leah Wald, CEO of Valkyrie Investments, has emerged as a key figure in bridging conventional finance with decentralized finance.
In terms of innovation, Elizabeth Stark, co-founder of Lightning Labs, enhances Bitcoin viability with scalability solutions, while Aya Miyaguchi of the Ethereum Foundation shapes Ethereum’s educational and developmental strategies.
Gen Z women, immersed in digital culture, are entering this sector not only with tech-savviness but also with an innate understanding of community-building—an essential aspect for success in crypto.
What’s Holding Women Back in Crypto?
Despite improvements, women make up less than 10% of crypto founders and developers, facing persistent barriers such as limited funding access and cultural biases. Hostility within the crypto space often discourages potential contributors.
“Being hateful towards women in crypto is the most cringe, frail-ego coded shit you can do”
— voh (@vohvohh) May 7, 2025
Many women encounter hostile and misogynistic environments in crypto, making recruitment tough even among those genuinely interested.
Despite these obstacles, the current generation of women is digitally native, entrepreneurial, and increasingly aware of social and business dynamics. With suitable support, they’re well-positioned to spearhead the next wave of innovation in the crypto world.
Emerging initiatives like SOL Strategies demonstrate a shift in finance dynamics, empowering women to take on leadership roles across the crypto landscape.
This decade is poised to be pivotal; if trends continue, we will one day recognize the 2020s as not just a technological era but also a time when Gen Z women fundamentally altered the tech and finance sectors.
